2004 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (603 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 406 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 745 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 770 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 603 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
